WORLD ▫ ASIA ▫ MALAYSIA
▫ KUALA LUMPUR
Kuala Lumpur , or simply KL, is the capital of Malaysia. Literally meaning "muddy estuary" in Malay, KL has grown from a small sleepy village to a bustling metropolis (metro population 6.9 million) in just 50 years. With the world's cheapest five-star hotels, great shopping and even better food, increasing numbers of travellers are discovering this little gem of a city. Understand
Founded only in 1857 as a tin mining outpost, Kuala Lumpur is fairly new as far as Malaysian cities go and lacks the rich history of George Town or Malacca. After rough early years marked by gang fighting, Kuala Lumpur started to prosper and was made capital of the Federated Malay States in 1896. Malaysia's independence was declared in 1957 in front of huge crowds at what was later named Stadium Merdeka (Independence Stadium), and Kuala Lumpur continued as the new nation's capital. The economic boom of the 1990s brought KL the standard trappings of a modern city, bristling with skyscrapers and modern transportation systems. Like most of Malaysia's big cities, about 55% of Kuala Lumpur's population is of Malaysian Chinese descent. Orientation Kuala Lumpur is a fairly sprawling city for its size. For many visitors the center of the city lies in the Golden Triangle, between Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Jalan Pudu, Jalan Tun Perak and Jalan Ampang: this is where most of the city's shopping malls, five-star hotels and trendiest nightspots are, and the Kuala Lumpur City Center (KLCC) development home to the famous Petronas Twin Towers is at the northern edge. But the traditional core of the city lies more to the south, where Merdeka Square has many of KL's best-preserved colonial buildings and Chinatown bustles with activity late into the night. Further south yet, the suburb of Bangsar is a popular restaurant and clubbing district. Get in
By plane Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)All scheduled jet flights, whether domestic or international, arrive at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport ( ) located about 50km to the southwest of Kuala Lumpur, in the Sepang district of Selangor. The US$2.5bil modern structure of glass and steel was inaugurated in 1998 and has been ranked as one of the top airports of the world. It replaced the former Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah International Airport in Subang, which is now used for chartered and turboprop flights. Over 50 airlines call at KLIA. A new Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCC) opened in March 2006, and is currently used by AirAsia and Cebu Pacific . Though the LCC terminal is across the runway tarmac from the Main Terminal Building, it is nearly 20km away by road. Frequent shuttle buses connect the two terminals, costing RM1.50 per trip. At the Main Terminal Building, catch the shuttles at the Bus Terminal on the Ground Floor of the Car Park C building, while at the LCCT, wait for the buses at the bus bays right in front of the terminal. Getting there/away:Main TerminalBy Train:*The high-speed KLIA Ekspres links the airport directly with the KL Sentral transportation hub in Kuala Lumpur in 28mins. Trains run from 5am to 12 midnight. There is one train every 15mins between 5am and 9am, and between 4pm and 10pm; while trains run every 20mins outside those hours. The cost of a one-way ticket is RM35. There is no discount on return tickets. Those using this service to get to KLIA can check in their baggage at the Kuala Lumpur City Air Terminal in KL Sentral. The city check-in service however is only available to those flying Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Royal Brunei Airlines. See "Get around" section below on how to get to/away from KL Sentral.
*The KLIA Transit , like the KLIA Ekspres, also links the airport with KL Sentral except that it stops at three intermediate stations - Salak Tinggi, Putrajaya, and Bandar Tasik Selatan. The journey takes 36mins. The fare from end to end is the same as for the KLIA Ekspres, which is RM35. Different fares apply for journeys to the intermediate stations. From KL Sentral, trains run every half hour from 5.33am to 0.03am, while from KLIA, trains run every half hour from 5.52am to 1am. You may use of KLIA Ekspres' check-in services even when holding a KLIA Transit ticket.
*You can also catch KTM Komuter trains to Nilai station and take a connecting bus to KLIA. The frequent Nilai-KLIA buses are operated by Airport Coach and Sepang Omnibus. The entire journey may take about two hours, but the cost is considerably cheaper than the above two options. For example, the fare from KL Sentral to Nilai is RM4.70 while the bus fare from Nilai to KLIA is about RM2.50. You can also use the KTM Komuter to go to other destinations, such as Seremban in Negeri Sembilan. For other KTM Komuter destinations, see "Get around" section below.By bus*Airport Coach runs half hourly express buses between KL Sentral and KLIA starting from 5am to 12 midnight. RM10 one way.*Sepang Omnibus runs local bus services directly to Seremban in Negeri Sembilan, Banting in Selangor and Sepang town where you can get connecting buses to/from Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan. The buses may be a little basic and uncomfortable, and do not follow a timetable (at least, not one that is publicly known).*Both Airport Coach and Sepang Omnibus run frequent buses between KLIA and Nilai where you continue your journey on the KTM Komuter. See the "Get around" section below for details on the KTM Komuter.By taxi*From KLIA: Only Airport Limo limousines and budget taxis are allowed to pick up passengers at the airport. You buy coupons from Airport Limo counters just before you exit the international arrivals gate, or just outside the domestic arrivals gate. Ask for a budget taxi, which is perfectly fine and costs a fixed RM67.40 to get to Kuala Lumpur; otherwise you'll be given a misnamed "limousine" that costs an extra 20 ringgit.
*To KLIA: Any taxi can bring passengers to KLIA, including Kuala Lumpur's metered red-and-white taxis, although you will find it very difficult to get drivers to use the meters. Make sure you agree on a price before getting into the taxi. Fares should be between RM60 and RM90.: Warning: It is better not to accept offers from touts in the arrival foyer because they may charge more than Airport Limo taxis. You will also not be covered by insurance if an accident happens.By road*If you have your own wheels, KLIA is well connected to Peninsular Malaysia's expressway network. The airport is directly linked with the North South Expressway Central Link (known by its Malay abbreviation "Elite") about 70km or nearly one hour away from Kuala Lumpur city centre. Exit the expressway at KLIA interchange for both the Main Terminal and LCCT.Low cost carrier terminalBy train*There are no direct train connections to the LCCT (although the government has agreed to build one). However, you can take either train from KL Sentral to the Main Terminal, then catch the shuttle bus to the LCCT.By bus*SkyBus [ runs direct services every half hour or so from KL Sentral to the LCCT. RM9 one-way.*Aerobus also runs direct bus services every half hour from KL Sentral to the LCC Terminal. RM 9 one-way, free return journey.*Star Shuttle (Tel: +60-3-40438811), newly launched in January 2007, has direct buses to the Pekeliling Bus Terminal and Batu 3 (3rd Mile) Jalan Ipoh in Kuala Lumpur, as well as direct connections to the Subang Jaya KTM Komuter station and the PKNS Building in Shah Alam. Check its website for schedules. Fares are RM9 per trip.By taxi*To LCCT: Any taxi can bring passengers to the LCCT, including Kuala Lumpur's metered red-and-white taxis, although you will find it very difficult to get drivers to use the meters. Make sure you agree on a price before getting into the taxi. Fares should be between RM60 and RM90.: Warning: It is better not to accept offers from touts in the arrival foyer because they may charge more than Airport Limo taxis. You will also not be covered by insurance if an accident happens.By road*The LCCT is about 20km from the Main Terminal and can be accessed via the KLIA circular or airport cargo road.Subang AirportThe Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport () (), more commonly referred to as the Subang Airport, was the country's main international airport until KLIA was opened in 1998. It currently handles only chartered and turboprop aircraft. The main operator here is Berjaya Air, which flies daily to/from Tioman Island, five times a week to/from Pangkor Island, and special flights to Redang Island. It also has two flights weekly to/from Ko Samui in Thailand. Getting there/away: The airport is 25 km from the city center and the best way to get there is by taxi. Rapid KL bus No. 47 (destination PKNS Subang) from the Klang Bus Station goes past the airport. By road Most important roads in Peninsular Malaysia lead to/from Kuala Lumpur. The city lies about midway along the North-South Expressway (NSE; route numbers E1 and E2) which runs from the Malaysia-Thailand border at Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah to Johor Bahru in the south, on the Malaysian side of the Causeway to Singapore. The main expressway exits for Kuala Lumpur on the NSE are Jalan Duta (from the north) and Sungai Besi (from the south). The Karak Highway (E8), which later turns into the East Coast Expressway, links Kuala Lumpur with the East Coast states of Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan. For those who do not want to pay toll, Kuala Lumpur is on Federal Route One (the "Trunk Road") which, like the NSE, runs through all West Coast states of Peninsular Malaysia from Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah to Johor Bahru. Those travelling along the West Coast Road (Federal Route Five) should leave the road at Klang and get to Kuala Lumpur via the Federal Highway. By busKuala Lumpur has several bus terminals (Malay: stesen bas or hentian) which handle long distance express bus services; many destinations are served by more than one terminal. PudurayaThe biggest (and invariably most crowded) terminal, located in the city centre near Chinatown. Beware of pickpockets, ticket touts and other undesirables, especially late at night. Access: Plaza Rakyat station (Ampang and Sri Petaling Lines) is within walking distance; many local bus stops nearby. To/from Hat Yai, in Thailand: Konsortium Bas Ekspres Semenanjung (KBES) (Counter 73. Tel: +60-3-20313036) has departures at 10:30 & 23:00 - RM45 one-way.To/from Singapore: Transnasional (Tel: +60-3-20703300) is Malaysia's biggest long-distance bus company. Economy class departures to Singapore's Lavender Street terminal at 08:45, 10:30, 13:30, 17:30, 22:30 & 23:59 - RM30 one-way.Konsortium Bas Ekspres Semenanjung (KBES) (Counter 81. Tel: +60-3-20701321) has several buses daily to/from the Golden Mile complex in Singapore.Hentian PutraMost (but not all) East Coast services use this terminal which is located to the north of the city centre on Jalan Putra. Access: PWTC station (Ampang and Sri Petaling Lines) and Putra station (both KTM Komuter lines) are within walking distance. Hentian DutaMany north-bound Transnasional express buses use this terminal which is located a distance to the west of the city centre on Jalan Duta. Note that Airport Coach buses to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) no longer use this terminal - they now use KL Sentral instead. Access: the only convenient way is by taxi. Kuala Lumpur Old Railway StationNow used as a bus terminal, but still handles commuter trains on both KTM Komuter lines, also accessible via Rapid KL City Shuttle No. 109, 115. Plusliner luxury services (under the brand names "Nice" and "Platinum Service") are based here; destinations include Penang, Johor Bahru, Singapore, and Hat Yai in Thailand. OthersCorus Hotel (on Jalan Ampang) serves as the terminal for Aeroline express buses to/from Singapore. Access: KLCC station is 300m away. Rapid KL City Shuttle No. 103, 104, 105, 106, 114. First Coach services to/from Singapore leave from their office sat Bangsar Utama, just off Jalan Bangsar, south-west of the city centre. Access: within walking distance of Bangsar station. Rapid KL No. 46, 33D. MATIC - Malaysian Tourist Information Complex on Jalan Ampang serves as Transnasional's Executive Coach terminal (Tel: +60-3-21611864). Departures to Singapore (09:00 & 18:00 - RM69.90 one-way) and to Penang. Pekeliling bus terminal is on Jalan Tun Razak to the north of the city centre, and handles local bus services to some Pahang destinations like Genting Highlands, Bentong, Raub and Temerloh. Access: Titiwangsa station is within walking distance. Rapid KL City Shuttle No. 101, 102, 103, 104, 109. By train KTM's intercity trains arrive at the new KL Sentral railway station, located (despite the name) a fair distance to the south of the city center. Take the Putra LRT or KL Monorail to the city center, or RM10 coupon taxi to most destinations in the city center. Most services are available at the station, including showers (RM5 for shower only, RM15 if you want a towel & toiletries too). By boat Kuala Lumpur is not located by the sea. However, there are ferry connections to/from Sumatra (Indonesia) at Port Klang, about 40 km west of Kuala Lumpur. See the Port Klang article for details on how to get there. Get around
The first phase of Kuala Lumpur's ambitious public transport system is now complete, but there's still a fair amount of room for improvement. By train Kuala Lumpur's public transport system consists of 3 LRT (Light Rail Transit) lines operated by RapidKL, the semicircular KL Monorail looping through the Golden Triangle and the KTM Komuter for trips to the outer northern, southern & western suburbs. Fares are cheap (RM1.2 and up), although connectivity between the lines is poor. The Touch 'n Go card, which can be purchased for RM10 at major stations, can now be used on all lines except the airport express. Some particularly convenient stations include: Bukit Bintang (KL Monorail), for shopping in the Golden TriangleBukit Nanas (KL Monorail), for clubbing at P. RamleeKLCC (Putra), for the Twin Towers and the Suria KLCC shopping mallKL Sentral (Kelana Jaya/KL Monorail/KTM Komuter), for intercity trains and the KLIA Ekspres to the airportMasjid Jamek (all LRT lines), for LRT interchange as well as access to Chinatown and Little IndiaPlaza Rakyat (Sri Petaling/Ampang), for Puduraya bus stationA few quirks to beware of: # The Kelana Jaya LRT was formerly known as "PUTRA", while the Sri Petaling and Ampang LRTs were formerly known as "STAR". Signage is still inconsistent but is slowly being updated. # The KL Monorail's "KL Sentral" station is in fact a poorly signposted station 250m away from the main station. Take note that the actual KL Sentral building can only be accessible from the Monorail stop by crossing a busy street; therefore visitors with much luggage will probably wish to opt for a taxi instead. By bus City ShuttlesRapid KL's newly introduced City Shuttle buses come in handy for tourists. The 15 routes cover most major areas in Kuala Lumpur city centre. The fare for City Shuttles is RM2 for the whole day. If you buy an integrated daily pass (SEPADU) for only RM7, you can ride any RAPID KL bus and LRT for as many trips as you like for the whole day. Buy a ticket on your first ride and just flash your ticket at the driver for all subsequent rides. All City Shuttle buses can be identified by a red disk on the windscreen and side window near the front door. The bus routes are also numbered from 101 to 115. City Shuttle buses depart from four "hubs", all of them thankfully served by rail. They are KL Sentral (Kuala Lumpur's main railway station), KLCC (where the Petronas Twin Towers are located), Titiwangsa (at the Pekeliling Bus Terminal) and Maluri (adjacent to the Maluri LRT station in an inner suburban area east of the city centre). Many routes converge at the heart of the city centre at a place called Medan Pasar. Rapid KL promises 5 minute frequencies. It remains to be seen whether this can be kept. Here are the routes: 101: Titiwangsa to Medan Pasar via Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman102: Titiwangsa to Medan Pasar via Kampung Baru103: Titiwangsa to KLCC via Jalan Raja Muda (Chow Kit)104: Titiwangsa to KLCC via Jalan Tun Razak (National Theatre, National Library)105: KLCC to Medan Pasar via Jalan Ampang106: KLCC loop service serving the Golden Triangle107: Maluri loop service serving the Golden Triangle108: Medan Pasar loop service serving the Golden Triangle109: KL Sentral to Titiwangsa via Jalan Travers (National Museum, Islamic Arts Museum)110: KL Sentral to Medan Pasar via Central Market111: Maluri to Medan Pasar via Pudu112: Maluri to KL Sentral via Jalan Loke Yew113: Maluri to Medan Pasar via Golden Triangle114: Maluri to KLCC via Jalan Tun Razak (Indonesian Embassy)115 KL Sentral to Parlimen loop service passing the National Museum, Islamic Arts Museum, National MonumentOther servicesRapid KL also operates other bus routes which serve the far flung suburbs of the Klang Valley. There is little reason to use them unless you are going to be living in Kuala Lumpur for a period of time. Because there are many bus operators besides Rapid KL (Metrobus, Len Seng, Permata Kiara, Selangor etc) and a severe lack of signboards and other forms of passenger information, Kuala Lumpur's bus network may be just a little too complicated for a short-term traveller to fathom. Specific bus information is given at each place of interest on this page. By taxi With RM2 flagfall and RM0.10 for every 200m after the first 2 km, red and white normal taxis are not very expensive in Kuala Lumpur and are probably the best way to get around, at least outside the congested peak hours. Note that bright yellow premium taxis have a RM4 flagfall and also charge a bit more by kilometer. There are also various small surcharges for radio call (RM1), baggage (RM1 per piece), etc. Try to get the driver to use the meter, although this may be difficult when demand exceeds supply as most cabbies consider the official rates too low. If you have to bargain, aim for RM5 for short trips, RM10 if going across town. If staying in a fancy hotel, tell the driver the name of the mall next to it to lower his expectations. A few popular places (notably the airport, KL Sentral and Menara KL) enforce prepaid coupon systems, which generally work out more expensive than using the meter, but cheaper than bargaining. If you get so off the beaten track that you need to call a cab, give Comfort Cabs a ring at +60-3-62531313 or Sunlight Taxi at +60-3-90575757. By car Driving in Kuala Lumpur can be a nightmare, with heavy traffic, a convoluted web of expressways and poor signage to guide you through it all. Reckless drivers are common - Malaysia infamously has one of the highest road accident rates in the world. Suicidal motorcyclists will also keep you on your toes. Do not park at the road of busy districts such as Bangsar, Bukit Bintang etc. Other cars might lock you in by parking next to you in the 2nd or 3rd lane. Use covered parking lots or park a bit off the beaten path and then walk back. On foot KL is a notoriously pedestrian-hostile city, with heavy traffic (and aggressive drivers), few pedestrian crossings / pathways, and poorly maintained foot-paths. Walking within some districts (eg. Chinatown and Bukit Bintang) is feasible but walking long distance generally is not. Lately, pick-pockets and bag-snatchers on motorbikes have been a problem, especially in Chinatown district, so care needs to be taken. When it rains the side walks and streets turn into small rivers and crossing a street can be an adventure. See
Kuala Lumpur is one of those cities which are a little short on must-see attractions: the real joy lies in wandering randomly, seeing, shopping and eating your way through it. You may find that most attractions are only crowded on weekends/holidays and deserted on weekdays. Petronas Twin Towers, KLCC, Jalan Ampang (Kelana Jaya Line: KLCC), . Until recently the tallest buildings in the world, they are now second only to the newly built Taipei 101 building in Taipei (the capital of Taiwan), but are still among the most spectacular. Visitors may pick up passes to marvel at the view from the Skybridge (level 41-42), one of the highest suspended bridges in the world. Entry is free but limited to the first 1200 who show up, so get there early (best is 7:45 to 8:00 AM)because available tickets are usually snapped up by 11:30 AM. Open 8:30 AM to 5 PM daily except Monday. In general you have about 10 minutes at the Skybridge. The highest point that visitors can get to is the skybridge. Aquaria KLCC, KLCC Convention Center Basement Levels 1 and 2 (Kelana Jaya Line: KLCC),. A gigantic aquarium recently opened, housing 5,000 varieties of tropical fishes. Has an underwater tunnel, various exhibits of flora and fauna, and multimedia kiosks. Aquaria "offers a unique underwater 'edu-tainment experience", as stated on the KLCC website. Open from 11 AM to 8 PM daily, including school and public holidays; last admission at 7pm. Entrance fee for adults: RM38 (RM28 with the Malaysian ID card - MyKad); Children 3-12 years old: RM26 (RM22 with MyKad); for those below 3 years old, admission free.Petrosains, KLCC Level 4 (Kelana Jaya Line: KLCC), . An exhibit of the science and technology behind the petroleum industry and more, and a great place to bring kids. Adults RM12, teens RM7, children RM4; you must book your tickets at least 30 minutes in advance (expect queues on weekends).KL Tower (Menara KL), Jalan Punchak, . The observation deck on the top floor provides great city views, and you'll be a few meters higher than the Twin Towers since the tower is built on a hill. Entry to the observation deck costs RM20 and is open from 9 AM to 10 PM daily; for a free bonus, check out the wonderfully bombastic free film on the tower's construction, screened in a little cinema on the tower ground floor. It is possible to get to the revolving restaurant which is one floor above the observation deck but only by dining there. There is free shuttle bus service from the main gate to the base of the tower, though number of seats in the bus is very limited.Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka) Merdeka Square has a special place in the hearts of all Malaysian as it was here that the Union Jack was lowered for last time in 1957 and Malaysia gained her independence. Standing tall here is also one of the tallest flag poles in the world, measuring in at 100m. Surrounding the area are host of historical structures like Sultan Abdul Samad building and Old City Hall. The Royal Selangor Club and St. Mary's Cathedral are two famous landmarks nearby.Sultan Abdul Samad Building Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, Originally the offices of the Colonial Secretariat, they later served as the first administrative centre of the Malayan government. Built in 1848 by British architects, A C Norman and A B Hubback, this historical landmark is famed for its Islamic-inspired architecture. Today, it houses the Courts of Law. The 40-metre high clock tower is a popular gathering-point for New Year and National Day countdown celebrations and parades.Jamek Mosque (Masjid Jamek) Located at the convergence of the Klang and Gombak rivers is the stately Masjid Jamek, one of the oldest mosques in the city since its construction in 1909. Inspired by the Mogul mosque in North India, this building's notable features are three elegant domes which dominated the KL skyline long before the popularity of skyscrapers.Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association, Jalan Petaling (Monorail Maharajalela). The clan house (kongsi) of the Yuen family, this is the largest and oldest in KL, with the present version completed in 1906. Free admission (but donations welcome), open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. If you have trouble finding it, look for the green walled temple near Maharajalela monorail station (there are no English signs).Sze Ya Temple, Jalan Tun HS Lee (in Chinatown). The oldest Chinese temple in Kuala Lumpur built in 1882, it is located behind the old shophouses between Jalan Tun HS Lee and Jalan Hang Kasturi. The temple is dedicated to Shen Kong, worshipped as the guardian deity for the local Chinese miners and houses several other deities, including the deified Yap Ah Loy, third Kapitan Cina of KL. The ornate interior and elaborate roof ridges are typical of religious Chinese architecture and visitors can still see patrons conducting worship to the gods and the ancestors.Thean Hou Temple, Persiaran Endah, off Jalan Syed Putra. The Thean Hou temple is one of the largest and most ornate Chinese temples in the region. The six-tiered temple was built by the Hainanese community and is dedicated to Tian Hou, or The Heavenly Mother. But, as an example of the syncreticism of Chinese religion, also houses two other altars, one for Shui Wei Sheng Niang, the Goddess of the Waterfront and another for Kuan Yin, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. Its grand architecture and fantastic view of the Valley make it a tourist favourite.Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Jalan Tun HS Lee (in Chinatown). An elaborate Hindu temple known as the starting point of the yearly Thaipusam pilgrimage to the Batu Caves, where Hindu devotees haul portable altars pierced to their skin with 108 lances. Check out the elaborate gopuram above the entrance. Free admission (but donations welcome).National Monument (Tugu Negara), Jalan Tugu Off Jalan Parlimen. This immense bronze structure was built as a memorial to the soldiers who gave up their lives for their country. This sculpture depicts seven soldiers holding the Malaysian flag, each symbolising one of seven qualities; unity, strength, leadership, sacrifice, courage, suffering and vigilance. It was sculpted by Felix de Weldon, who sculpted the famed Iwo Jima Memorial statue in Virginia, United States.Muzium Negara (National Museum), Jalan Damansara, . Contains exhibits on traditional life among the various ethnic communities of Malaysia, numerous well-explained artifacts including fine clothing and shadow puppets, and a sizeable natural history section showing the range of flora and fauna native to the country. A visit to this museum can help you to understand more about Malaysian history, culture, and nature.Muzium Kesenian Islam (Islamic Arts Museum), Jalan Lembah Perdana, . Situates both modern and traditional Malaysia as part of the larger Islamic world and, through exhibitions of objects of religious and aesthetic significance, shows both the connection of Malaysian Islamic culture to the Muslim lands to its west and its uniqueness. Open Daily: 10.00am to 6.00pm. Muzium Orang Asli (Indigenous Peoples Museum), KM24 Gombak. A quaint museum situated on Orang Asli land that showcases the culture of the different indigenous peoples from Peninsular Malaysia. With over 3,000 artifacts that tell the history, practices and lifestyle of the many indigenous tribes who occupied Malaysia before the advent of urban society. Definitely worth the journey, especially for those interested in indigenous cultures. Open: 9.00am to 5.00pm. Closed on Fridays.Masjid Negara (National Mosque), Jalan Perdana. The Masjid Negara is unique in that it incorporates Malay-Islamic rather than the usual Arabic-Islamic architecture. It is known for its conspicuous turquoise umbrella-like roof. A yellow umbrella is usually part of the royal regalia of the sultans of Malay kingdoms.The National Planetarium, Lot 54, Jalan Perdana, the attractions here include space science and astronomy exhibits, a theatre screening 3-Dimensional movies, a viewig gallery and an observatory. Admission is RM1 for adults and children over 12 (extra charges for all shows). Open Daily : 9:30am to 4:15pm. Istana Negara (National Palace), Jalan Istana, . The Istana Negara is the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the constitutional monarch and paramount ruler of Malaysia, which is a largely ceremonial post. Built in 1928 by a Chinese millionaire and occupied by Japanese officers during the Japanese occupation of Malaya, the palace, which sits on a 11.34 hectare site, was bought by the federal government at independence in 1957 and has since then undergone extensive renovations to become what it is today. Visitors can witness the changing of the guards daily from the main gate. The palace is not open to the public.Batu Caves, 13 km north of the city (45 min on bus 70 or 349 from Puduraya. Also bus 11 starting next to Central Market (walkable distance from Puduraya)). Have a good map, or ask one of the locals where to get off. The stop isn't obvious, the bus doesn't terminate there, and there may not be another tourist on the local bus. Hindu priests have used these caves as temples since their discovery in 1878 by William Hornaday. Crowds of Hindus visit the caves in January/February for the spectacular Thaipusam festival, when devout Hindus skewer portable shrines to their bodies and carry them all the way from central KL. They contain a large number of beautiful and fascinating statues of the Hindu Gods. Beware of the thieving monkeys, and bat droppings in the cave, though. And discarded rubbish on the steps. The stairs that take you up to the cave is about 273 steps. Do
Cosmo's World, Berjaya Times Square 4-9F (Monorail Imbi), . Malaysia's largest indoor theme park, located on the upper floors of the giant Berjaya Times Square mall and particularly notable for its hair-raising seven-story indoor roller coaster. The park is divided into two sections, one geared for small children, the other for those who want a little more excitement; one ticket gets you into both. Admission for adults/children RM25/15, open 12 noon to 10 PM daily.Dewan Filharmonik Petronas, KLCC, . The home of the well-regarded Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra is nestled at the base of the Twin Towers, offering performances of classical music most Saturdays at 8:30 PM and Sundays at 3:00 PM, with tickets starting at just RM 25. Advance bookings are possible online. Note that a strict dress code applies: long sleeve batik or lounge suit for gala and evening performances, "smart casual" (no jeans, shorts, T-shirts, sneakers and slippers) for other performances.Istana Budaya, (near Titiwangsa and Kampung Baru LRT stations), . This is where most plays and theatre performances, both local and international, are held. The site covers 5.44 hectares and the auditorium has a seating capacity of 1,421. Tickets are available from the box office or online via Axcess .The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPac), in Sentul West is also a noted centre for performing arts, notably theatre and music (it can also host film screening). It has housed many local productions and has been a supporter of local and regional independent performance artists. .The National Art Gallery, located on Jalan Temerloh, off Jalan Tun Razak neighboring the National Theater (Istana Budaya) and National Library (Perpustakaan Negara). The unique architecture of the gallery incorporates elements of traditional Malay architecture, which combined with contemporary lines has distinguished the complex as one of the most modern art venues in the region. The National Art Gallery is a centre of excellence and trustee of the national art heritage.Rock climbing, nearby Batu Caves features a great variety of climbing on steep limestone routes. Over one hundred bolted lines contain features similar in nature to those found in Rai Leh, Thailand. Easy access from downtown and a simple street-level approach makes for a convienient and challenging day of climing.Spa, while KL is not normally associated with extravagant spa treatments like other destinations in Asia such as Phuket an Bali, the city delivers a variety of treatment centers (albeit within the cosmopolitan confines) to satisfy any expectation or budget. The spas tend to fit into two categories: affiliated or attached to high-end hotels or stand-alone facilities located in malls or commercial space. The top floor (Pamper) of Starhill Gallery hosts an impressive cluster of spas whose services offerings range from world class, all day treatments (600 RM), to affordable facials and one hour long full body massages (100 RM). Regardless of your spa selection, one this is common among all treatment centers in KL: few spas have web sites making advance research very difficult. Buy
There's some great shopping to be done in Kuala Lumpur. Goods are available in every price bracket, and while electronics are a tad more expensive than in Singapore or Hong Kong they can still be much cheaper than Europe. Due to KL's tin mining past, various pewter products remain popular as souvenirs, and a miniature model of the Petronas Twin Towers is probably the definitive only-in-KL gift. Royal Selangor remains the world's largest pewter producer and has stores all over KL. Shopping malls Kuala Lumpur's largest shopping district is the Bukit Bintang area, named after the street of the same names, although stores and hotels sprawl in all directions along Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Imbi. Berjaya Times Square, Jalan Imbi (Monorail Imbi), Bukit Bintang. A newly built gargantuan ten-story shopping mall that houses world's largest Borders bookstore, Malaysian department store Metrojaya, the Cosmo's World theme park (see Do) plus an IMAX theater. The upper floors are still a bit sparse but it's starting to reach critical mass and can get quite packed on weekends.Suria KLCC, beneath the Petronas Twin Towers (Kelana Jaya Line: KLCC), . An upscale shopping centre with plenty of designer labels and brands, KLCC has quickly become one of the top hangout-spots in KL. Some very good eating options too. You will see more tourists than locals here though. The LRT stops at another shopping mall called Avenue K. There is a tunnel from the train station which links to Suria KLCC.Low Yat Plaza, Jalan Bukit Bintang (Monorail Imbi, walk past Melia and turn left into an alley before Imbi Plaza), Bukit Bintang. A good place for computer hardware, game consoles and handphones. A "must visit" for the tech inclined. All IT Hypermart (4th floor) is a good one-stop shop, but there are dozens of specialist computing boutiques for the enthusiast.Sungei Wang, Jalan Bukit Bintang (direct bridge to Monorail Bukit Bintang), Bukit Bintang. A great place to buy cameras and watches (discounts are given for cash payments, although credit cards are accepted). Sungei Wang also hosts a concentration of tailors of men's and women's clothing.Lot 10, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang. A favourite among Malaysians and tourists alike, Lot 10 is Bukit Bintang's very own "Emerald City", housing boutiques that will appeal to shoppers looking for goods in all price brackets. It houses the Isetan department store.Starhill Gallery, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, adjoining J.W Marriott Hotel. Starhill is a literally an English translation of “Bukit Bintang”. A shopping centre that rivals Suria KLCC for designer goods. A must-visit for watch aficionados as the ‘Adorn’ floor (1st floor) houses the biggest selection of designer wrist-watch boutiques like, amongst others, Jaeger-Le Coultre, Roger Dubuis, Audemars Piguet, Breguet, Tag Heuer, Omega, Vacheron Constantin, IWC, Patek Philippe and Rolex, of course. Great if you have lots of cash to splurge.Other shopping malls in the Bukit Bintang area include BB Plaza, KL Plaza, a mini retail annex known as Piccolo Galeria and the soon-to-be-completed luxury megamall opposite Starhill Gallery known as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. Some shopping malls of note can be found elsewhere... Mid Valley Megamall, KTM Komuter Mid-Valley, . One stop south of KL Sentral, and near Bangsar, this really is "mega" with over 430 shops crammed into what claims to be South-East Asia's largest shopping mall. Anchor tenants include big department stores and hypermarkets such as Malaysian arm of AEON Japan called Jusco, local store Metrojaya and French hypermarket Carrefour. Phase 2 of the Megamall known as The Gardens will be completed before end of 2007. Sunway Pyramid, Petaling Jaya,. Sunway Pyramid is a distinctive retail landmark located in the heart of Petaling Jaya. Since its opening in July 1997, it is Malaysia's first themed shopping and entertainment mall.One Utama, Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya. A gigantic shopping mall that offers a numerous variety of shops as well as restaurants, cinemas and high-end stores such as home grown Parkson departmental store, Marks & Spencer, Japanese electronic retailer Best Denki etc. Mutiara Damansara shopping belt, located adjacent to One Utama is home to one of Asia's largest Ikea store, as well as retailers such as Britain's Tesco and Western-style restaurants such as Marche Movenpick. Bangsar Shopping Centre. Better known as BSC, this mini shopping centre is a favourite among expats and the locals staying around the Bangsar & Damansara Heights neighbourhood. Plenty of cafes & restaurants - a good spot to meet up with friends. BSC also features speciality stores plus the Cold Storage Supermarket. Markets Despite the onslaught of malls, the Asian tradition of markets isn't yet entirely gone in KL. Central Market (Pasar Seni), Jalan Hang Kasturi (LRT Pasar Seni). KL's grand old market dates back to 1936, although it may have lost a bit of its charm when refurbished in 1986, complete with air-con inside. Has a particular emphasis on local crafts.Chinatown, Jalan Petaling (and nearby streets). Known as Chi-Chong-Kai to the local Chinese. Lots of food and souvenirs stalls here. A mosque known as Masjid Jamek is at walking distance. (Star LRT: Plaza Rakyat or PUTRA LRT: Pasar Seni). An excellent place to look around surreptitiously for pirated DVD vendors. Prices are sometimes exorbitant. Haggle furiously. Eat
The full panoply of Malaysian and Singaporean cuisine is available in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur is particularly well known for dark Klang-style bak kut teh, nasi lemak and Ampang yong tau foo. Budget Head to Jalan Petaling anytime to sample cheap and tasty Chinese hawker fare. Pick any popular stall and try it out; there are particularly many bak kut teh joints around here. Jalan Alor off Bukit Bintang is another hawker center especially in the evening hours. The entire street is jammed on both sides with hawker stalls and restaurants (mainly Chinese) some of them open all night. Most places offers menus with photos of the dishes. Watch out if you order from the sit-down restaurants, as both areas have become somewhat touristy and prices can be a little high for hawker fare. Raju's, Jalan Chantek, Petaling Jaya. Great Roti Canai!Al-Esfan, Berjaya Plaza, Jalan Imbi (Monorail Imbi). 24-hour mamak joint offering rice, breads, curries, dips, tandoori chicken, noodles and even pizza (at least in name). Order what you will from any stall, they'll tally your purchases on a chit and you pay when you leave. Roti canai 80 sen/piece, a plate of rice with three curries under RM5.Foong Foong Yong Tau Foo, Pekan Ampang (Star Ampang station, turn right onto main street, turn right at police station and walk for 15 minutes to end of street). Location: 3°8'39.86"N ; 101°45'47.69"E. One of three adjacent places competing for the title of The Original Ampang yong tau foo, a Hakka Chinese dish consisting of large pieces of tofu and vegetables, stuffed with fish paste, boiled in stock and served dipped into sweet and spicy sauces. 60 sen/piece plus 50 sen for a bowl of rice. Open every day for lunch only.Kam Lin Kee (金莲記), corner of Jalan Petaling and Jalan Hang Lekir (opp Hong Leong Bank). No English sign, no menu in any language, and a kitchen you really don't want to look into - but it packs the crowds for its famous hokkien mee (fried noodles in dark sauce, RM5). Wash it down with a RM1 mug of cooling liang teh and soak in the busy market ambience.Nasi Kandar Pelita, No. 149, Jalan Ampang (opp Corus Hotel), . A huge outlet of Malaysia's largest nasi kandar chain, with long queues snaking out at lunchtime. Ordering is easy, just choose and point, but be sure to ask for their specialty kuah campur (mixed gravy), meaning that you get half a dozen curry sauces splashed on top. Air-con available upstairs. Open 24 hours, most servings RM5-10.Roti Boy, outlets in KLCC and all over the place. Famed for its buttery coffee buns (RM1.50), which took not just Malaysia but Singapore and Thailand by storm in 2004. They are, indeed, incredibly tasty when fresh from the oven but lose their delectableness fast. Outlets and imitators all over town, just follow your nose!Steven's Corner, No. 18 & 18A, Jalan Hujan Rahmat 2 (off Old Klang Road), Overseas Union Garden, . A famous Indian bistro or locally called :WikiPedia:Mamak_stall|mamak stall. Open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.Yu Ai Segambut Seafood Noodle, No. 42, Jalan Segambut Utara, 51200 Kuala Lumpur (8am-5pm). Location: 3°11'5.41"N ; 101°40'33.54"E. Try your noodles with any of three soup options: their famous curry laksa, tom yam or qingtang (clear soup). Air-cond seating upstairs.Teochew Porridge Restaurant, No. 276-278, Jalan Changkat Thambi Dollah, off Jalan Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur (11am-4am). Location: 3°8'26"N ; 101°42'34"E. This restaurant serving plain rice porridge with more than 50 dishes including famous Teochew braised duck, braised tofu, braised intestines, salted vegetables, salted eggs and steamed salted Kembong fish.Super Noodle House, LG-001, Lower Ground, Sungai Wang Shopping Centre, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Tel: +60-3-2142 4729. Location: 3°8'41.39"N ; 101°42'41.21"E. One of the best Hong Kong style restaurants in Kuala Lumpur. Cuisine like porridge, wantan mee or chicken rice. Good food with reasonable pricing. Mid-range If you want good food with air-con, Kuala Lumpur's many shopping mall food courts are among your best bets. Nando's, . Several around KL including the lower level of Suria KLCC, near the Monorail at Bukit Bintang stop, and near China Town. It has a casual atmosphere with air-conditioned comfort and the best flame grilled chicken anywhere. You can order it hot (spicy) or mild and the sides are also excellent. Wash it down with a tasty sparkling apple drink. Pricing is very resonable.Lot 10 Food court, in the basement of the shopping mall at the intersection of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Sultan Ismail. Provides an excellent spread of Malaysian food in hygienic and air-conditioned comfort at prices that are only slightly above those outdoors.Asian Flavours Food Court (4F) and Signatures Food Court (2F) both in Suria KLCC mall next to the Petronas Towers. Both offer a very good selection of Malaysian specialities from throughout the country. During lunchtime very popular with the employees of the Petronas Tower.Laksa Shack, 2F, . Specializes in nothing but the many forms of the Malaysian laksa noodle (all RM8.60), but the sour Assam Laksa is usually the top seller.Some mid-range restaurants also stand out from the crowd. Hakka Restaurant, 6 Jalan Kia Peng, (tel. +603-21431907 or +603-21431908). There are many Hakka restaurants in KL, but this has to be the most famous one and for a good reason. Located within a stone’s throw from the newly-opened KL Convention Centre and directly opposite Menara HLA (any taxi driver would know). Hakka Restaurant has been serving up its famous dishes for more than 40 years in KL. Try the chicken, sharksfin and shiitake wrapped in lettuce or the ever-popular stewed pork with steamed mantou dumplings. Patrons may opt for indoor air-conditioned seating or enjoy the breezy night air at the el-fresco section with a cold beer. A definite must-try for the ex-pat, most dishes RM10-20.Kim Gary Beyond, Avenue K B1F (KLCC LRT). Popular Hong Kong chain serving up very modern Chinese fare. The locals' favorite is the rather un-Chinese baked rice with cheese (from RM11.90), but how about some borsht, a plate of spicy noodles "Typhoon Shelter" style and a cup of boiled Coke with ginger. Set meals for RM10-20.La Bodega, 18 Jalan Telawi 2 (Bangsar), tel. +60-3-2142-6338, . Excellent Spanish tapas at reasonable prices, on average RM10/14 for small/large portions. Indoor and outdoor seating, get in by 8 PM for happy hour pricing on sangria.Madam Kwan's, Lot 420/421, Suria KLCC 4F (also Mid-Valley Megamall, Bangsar). Very popular restaurant offering excellent local fare in a pleasant ambience. Try the nasi lemak (RM12.80) or the meltingly smooth beef rendang (RM6.80), and wash it down with a bowl of sweet green chendol (RM5.50). Get there early to beat the queues.Sahara Tent, 87 Jalan Berangan (Hotel Fortuna), off Jalan Bukit Bintang, tel. +62-3-2144-8310. Large, authentic and popular Middle Eastern eatery in Ain Arabia, KL's Little Arabia. The giant mezze platter (RM29) will leave two stuffed and a shisha water pipe at RM10 tops off the meal nicely.Anna Lakshmi , Near Mid Valley Mega Mall. A very good place for authentic North and South Indian food.Its run by a social service organization and there is no fixed price for food you eat.You can eat as much as you want and pay as much as you want. But definitely the organization expects you to pay a decent amount as donation for charity. RM 10 for a full meal per person can be sufficient.Izzi, Jalan Sultan Ismail (Opposite Sungai Wang Plaza, right under the Monorail at Bukit Bintang stop). 4 floors of Izzi restaurant, big sign, can't miss it. Menu: pizza, pasta, salad, steak, hainan chicken, tom yam. Drink: frozen coffee, spirits, beers, wine. Opening hours: 11.00 AM to 11.00 PM Upscale atmosphere. Pizza runs about 20 Ringgit. Almost looks more like a lounge than a restaurant. Free WiFi. http://www.izzikl.com Phone 03 2141 4111 Splurge Bistro de Paris, 18-1 Jalan P. Ramlee, tel. +60-3-2141-8005. The French dining experience from aperitif to digestif, ranging from steak frites to crême brulée. Open daily from 11 AM until late. Lunch prix fixe at RM15.95, dinner prix fixe at RM69.95.Chynna, Hilton KL 5F (at KL Sentral), tel. +60-3-2264-2264, . Wonderfully over-the-top modern Chinese restaurant that looks like it just stepped out of a kung-fu movie, with waitresses in thigh-slit cheongsams and plaited houseboys serving herbal tea from a pot with a meter-long spout. The menu is equally eclectic: try the pumpkin and shrimp dumplings or the chicken feet in black bean sauce, then finish off with coconut ice cream in avocado sauce. Lunchtime dim sum dishes a reasonable RM8-11 each, but dinner is far more expensive. Open daily 11 AM to 2:30 PM for lunch, 6 PM to 11 PM for dinner.Coliseum Cafe and Bar, 98 Jln. Tuanku Abdul Rahman. Old hangout from colonial times that serves Western food, although the quality has gone down recently as management changes.Seri Angkasa, atop the KL Tower, . A revolving restaurant that has a good reputation, but is (inevitably) fairly steeply priced. The RM55++ lunch buffet is comparatively good value.Wasabi Bistro, Mandarin Oriental B1F (next to KLCC), tel. +60-3-21630968 . Excellent traditional Japanese with modern twists, or without, depending on how you navigate the menu. Surprisingly generous portions for a restaurant of this caliber, figure on RM100/head for a full meal. Open for lunch and dinner daily.The Rama V, 5 Jln. U-Thant, tel. +60-3-2143-2428, has arguably the best Thai food in town. Main dishes are around RM60. Drink
Jalan P. Ramlee, just south of KLCC, is Kuala Lumpur's central clubbing district, easily accessible from KL Monorail Bukit Nanas or Raja Chulan stations. Famous clubs in the area include: Beach Club, 97 Jalan P Ramlee. Open-air club done up to look like a cheap beachside bar, this is the city's most infamous meat market and pickup joint. The club advertises itself as "Voted Best Bar in Asia" and is busy most nights. Popular with tourists and the well-dressed middle-aged crowd.Luna Bar, Menara PanGlobal 34F, Jalan Punchak (off Jl P. Ramlee), tel. +60-3-2026-2211. Super-chic breezy rooftop bar with a pool in the middle and the best night views in town. Show up early to grab a romantic windowside niche. Drinks RM20 and up, cover charge of RM50 (incl. one drink) may apply on weekends after 9:30 PM.Rum Jungle, 1 Jalan Pinang (corner of Jalan P Ramlee & Jalan Pinang). One of the newest clubs in KL, features a spectacular outdoor-bar style area, with great music and hot bar maids. Nouvo, 16 Jalan P Ramlee, . Nouvo seems to not be able to attract crowds away from neighbouring clubs, Beach Club (opposite) and the Thai club (next door).Zouk, 113 Jalan Ampang, . A branch of the famous Singaporean club, opened in 2004. Plays dance/house style music on Friday nights and popular with younger clubbers. 40RM entry (incl. one drink), and 25RM+ per drink. Popular on Wednesday nights for Mambo where they play popular music from the 70s and 80s. Poppy Garden, Jalan P Ramlee. Opposite Rum Jungle, Poppy Garden plays RnB & Hip Hip on Friday nights. A club reserved for younger Asian tourists and locals.Jalan Changkat Bukit Bintang is semi-clubbing area across the Radius International Hotel in Bukit Bintang. There are a few pubs who also have live music on Tuesdays and Fridays Bangsar, to the south of the city, is one of the busiest places in Kuala Lumpur past midnight. The action is around Jalan Telawi and its side streets, definitely the place to go for clubbing and deafening music. Despite the name the Bangsar LRT station is rather far away and finding a place to park your own car can be difficult, so a taxi is the best option. Alexis, 29 Jalan Telawi 3, tel. +603-2284-2880, . One of the more laid-back places in Bangsar, furnished in cool white with soft jazz playing in the background. Offer simple but tasty eats (pastas, sandwiches, nasi lemak), a good selection of coffee and a full bar.Heritage Row is a row of refurbished colonial-era shophouses which is now home to one of KL's swankiest night neighbourhoods. Attractions include fusion and other gourmet restaurants as well as trendy bars. Strictly for well heeled visitors and locals. It is located on Jalan Doraisamy just off Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Dang Wangi. It also has the happy coincidence of having a Kelana Jaya Line station (Dang Wangi) and a KL Monorail station (Medan Tuanku) in the vicinity. Popular bars include SaVanh, The Loft and Cynna Bar. Other zones with nightlife include: Sri Hartamas. More stall-vendors who sell beer, awesome hawker food at the Food Court (everything from Thai, Malay, Chinese, vietnamese, and Korean). Ask around, you really can't miss it.Mont Kiara. Some nice bars and coffeeshops. On certain nights there are jazz performances etc. Found all around the city, mamak stalls are wonderful places to hang out with locals and it is possible to stay at one far past midnight; many locals frequent mamak stalls to catch live coverage of sports events on a wide-screen projector/TV. They are run by Muslim Indians. They serve a variety of drinks and beverages (try the "teh-tarik"), and the non-alcoholic options are varied and inexpensive. BB Bistro, Jalan Bukit Bintang (next to BB Plaza). A modernized take on the mamak stall concept offering food, drinks, Arabic shisha water pipes and the house band Kapitan playing everybody's favorites in Malay, English, Cantonese and Arabic. Great for chilling out.Latino Grill, Jalan Bukit Bintang (in the Westin Hotel, side entrance). A modern bar with most nights live latin music. Very much upstyle and expensive. Attracts mainly the guests from the 5 star hotels around Bukit Bintang and ImbiFinnegan Irish Pub, Jalan Sultan Ismail/Mont Kiara/BangsarIn Chinatown, options are very scarce. You can have a drink at the hawker center, go to the Reggae Bar or to the rooftop bar in the Backpacker Traveler's Inn (the original). Sleep
Budget Most of KL's budget accommodation is clustered in Chinatown, where a bed for the night can be as little as RM20. Avoid any hotels marked Rumah Tumpangan instead of Hotel; these are dodgy boarding houses for foreign workers. Bed bugs seem to be a common feature in most of the budget accommodation, Pudu Hostel is particularly famous for them. Another center for budget accommodation is the Golden Triangle (Bukit Bintang area) where prices are slightly higher than in Chinatown. However, the area is the entertainment, shopping and dining center of KL. Budget accommodations here tend to be more spacious and cozy. Le Village Tingkat 1 Banguan BSN 99A Jln Tun H.S. Lee. Two lots from the Bangkok Bank. Near the pudu raya bus station and sky train stations. Great Atmosphere and friendly, helpful staff. Painting sessions on Thursdays in the attic. Free Tea & Coffee, plus free to use kitchen facilities. Dorms for RM12 Doubles/Twins from RM25 and Triples RM36.Heritage Hotel. In KL's beautiful old railway station (one stop away from KL Sentral). Offers backpacker packages starting as low as RM18 with breakfast. The facilities are modest but acceptable, and the old, slightly ramshackle building makes up for it. Full hotel rooms start at RM60.Red Palm, 5 Tengkat Tong Shing (Bukit Bintang), tel. +60-3-21431279, . A small hostel in a historical 2-storey building in the Golden Triangle (Bukit Bintang). It has basic but clean rooms upstairs and offers broadband internet and a hang-out lounge downstairs. There is a bbq area in front of the house. Hawker center Jalan Alor (1 min walk), Shopping and Entertainment Center Jalan Bukit Bintang (3 min) and Puduraya Bus Terminal (8min) are close by. RM25-65 (dorm room to twin double).Hans House, M3-F Kampung Warisan Condo, Jln Jelatek, tel.+60-12-241-6280, . Near the Setiawangsa LRT station. European style guesthouse with swimming pool. Free breakfast. Rooms start at RM 30 (Dorms/twin double). Mid-range Mid-range hotels are comparatively poor value in KL, and it's worth to it to spend a little extra (or look a little harder) for a true luxury hotel on the cheap. Mid-range hotels are listed here in alphabetical order. Flamingo hotel, Jalan Hulu Kelang, Tel : 603-4256 3288 Fax : 603-4256 3188, . Rooms from RM 158 (USD 46)Bintang Warisan Hotel, 68 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Tel +(60)3-21488111 Fax +(60)3-21482333 . KL hotel that offers traditional look, feel and service. Rooms from RM109 (US$30).Radius International Hotel, 51A Changkat Bukit Bintang, Telephone +60-3-2715 3888 . Great value KL hotel that delivers good service at an excellent price. Rooms come equipped with the necessities and some rooms have views of the Petronas Towers and the city skyline. Facilities include a Kopitiam, terrace restaurant and swimming pool. Well placed for Bukit Bintang's shopping malls and a short distance from most attractions. Great deals can be had on cheap accommodation websites a few weeks in advance. Brisdale Hotel, No.65, Jalan Haji Hussein.Off Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman.50300, Tel: (60)3-26948833, . Budget hotel in Chow Kit. Rooms from RM100 (US$27).Concorde, Jalan Sultan Ismail, . Three-star hotel getting a little scruffy around the edges, but still pretty good value in the RM150-200 price bracket. Pool and all you'd expect, plus the popular Hard Rock Cafe downstairs. Within easy walking distance of Jalan P Ramlee's nightspots and the Bukit Nanas monorail station.Meliá, Jalan Imbi 16 (Monorail Imbi), tel +60-3-21428333, . Solid if unremarkable four-star hotel opposite Berjaya Time Square and with a Monorail station next door. "Deluxe" rooms are equipped with not just broadband access, but an entire PC! Regular rates from RM200 for two with breakfast.Midah Hotel, 8, Jalan Kampung Attap, Tel: 60-3-2273 9999, . Midah Hotel a Superior Business City Hotel, is located within the commercial and business hub of Kuala Lumpur. 10 mins walking distance to China Town.Quality Hotel City Centre, Jalan Raja Laut, P.O. Box 11586, 5070 Kuala Lumpur,Malaysia. Tel +60-3-26939233 Fax +60-3-26939634 . Member of Choice Hotels International, this 250-room hotel is more than decent for its price. Room rates online start at RM145 (US$40).Seasons' View, Jalan Alor (near Bukit Bintang), . A mid-range hotel in the middle of the hustle and bustle of hawker street Jalan Alor, offering basic rooms starting at RM75. Splurge KL has a deserved reputation as one of the world's cheapest places to experience five-star luxury, with rooms available (at the right time and with the right discounts) for as little as RM250 (US$65+). Most of KL's best hotels are located in the Golden Triangle, within walking distance of most things that people would want to do. JW Marriott, 183 Jalan Bukit Bintang, tel. 03 2715 9000, . Marriott's flagship hotel in Kuala Lumpur, decorated in a Malaysian style and conveniently located on Jalan Bukit Bintang near the shopping district.Mandarin Oriental, . This is a fairly new hotel in what is probably the best location in KL - adjacent to the Twin Towers, a 50 acre park, and the KLCC shopping mall (the largest in central KL and the most fashionable one of the moment). Whilst primarily for business travellers, tourists will be well accommodated for. The restaurants are some of the best in KL, there is a nice infinity pool over the park, and to top it all, the rates often undercut some of the other hotels, such as the Westin.Prince, 4 Jalan Conlay (Monorail: Raja Chulan), tel. +60-3-21708888, . Large modern hotel and service apartment complex packed with restaurants, convenience store, spa, gym, pool, etc. Internet rates from RM300 with breakfast.Ritz Carlton 168, Jalan Imbi . This hotel and residence is connected to Starhill Gallery and hosts the Spa Village, one of the best in Malaysia. All rooms have 24h butler service and most of them have access to an executive lounge with complimentary internet access and drinks/horderves. For a Ritz the rooms are downright frumpy, but service is outstanding. Internet rates from RM380++.'''Renais
Kuala Lumpur is the capital and the largest city of Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is one of the three Malaysian Federal Territories. It is an enclave within the state of Selangor, on the central west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Malaysians commonly refer to the city as KL. Kuala Lumpur is the seat of the Parliament of Malaysia, making it the country's legislative capital. The city was once home to the executive and judicial branches of the federal government, but they have since moved to Putrajaya for the most part. Some sections of the judiciary remain in the capital. History
Kuala Lumpur has its origins in the 1850s, when the Malay Chief of Klang sent some Chinese upriver to open new and larger tin mines. They landed at the confluence of Sungai Gombak (previously known as Sungai Lumpur, which means muddy river) and Sungai Klang (Klang river) to open mines at Ampang. Later, tin mines were opened at Pudu and Batu. This trading post was a wild frontier town plagued by floods, fires, disease and the Selangor Civil War. During this time, Kapitan Cina Yap Ah Loy emerged as a leader, responsible for the survival and growth of the town. In 1880, the state capital of Selangor was moved from Klang to the more strategically advantageous Kuala Lumpur. After the fire and subsequent flood of 1881 destroyed the town's structures of wood and atap (thatch), Frank Swettenham, the British Resident of Selangor, required that buildings be constructed of brick and tile. A railway increased accessibility. Development intensified in the 1890s, leading to the creation of a Sanitary Board. In 1896, Kuala Lumpur was chosen as the capital of the newly formed Federated Malay States. A multiracial community settled in various sections of town. The Chinese congregated around the commercial centre of Market Square, east of Sungai Klang, and south into Chinatown. To the north, across Java Street (now Jalan Tun Perak) were the Malays. Nearby, a number of Indian Chettiars (money-lenders), and in later years Indian Muslim traders, set up business. West of the river, the Padang (now Merdeka Square) was the focal point of the British administration. Kuala Lumpur grew through two world wars, the rubber and tin commodity crash and the State of Emergency, during which Malaya was preoccupied with the communist insurgency. In 1957, the Federation of Malaya gained its independence from British rule. Kuala Lumpur remained the capital through the formation of Malaysia, achieving city status in 1972, and was established as the Federal Territory in 1974. Geography
Kuala Lumpur is located inland, at the confluence of Klang and Gombak River. Climate
Protected by the Titiwangsa Mountains in the east and Indonesia's Sumatra Island in the west, Kuala Lumpur enjoys a year-round equatorial climate which is warm and sunny, along with plentiful rainfall, especially during the southwest monsoon from April to September. Dust particles from forest fires on nearby Sumatra Island sometimes create a phenomenon known as the haze. This usually lasts for 1 to 2 weeks.
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Mayors of Kuala Lumpur
Since Kuala Lumpur became a Federal Territory of Malaysia on February 1, 1974, the city has been led by eight mayors. They are: #Tan Sri Dato' Lokman Yusof (1972) #Tan Sri Yaakob Latiff (1973 - 1983) #Tan Sri Dato' Elyas Omar (1983 - 1992) #Dato' Dr. Mazlan Ahmad (1992 - 1995) #Tan Sri Dato’ Kamaruzzaman Shariff (1995 - 2001) #Datuk Mohmad Shaid Mohd Taufek (2001 - 2004) #Datuk Ruslin Hasan (2004 - 2006) #Datuk Abdul Hakim Borhan (2006 - current) As local government elections in Malaysia have been suspended since 1970, mayors are appointed by the Federal Territories Minister. Arts
Kuala Lumpur is a hub for cultural activities and events. Among the centres is the National Museum which is situated along the Mahameru Highway. It offers various types of collection such as artefacts and paintings collected throughout the country. Another arts venue is the Kuala Lumpur Philharmonic Hall. It is headquartered to the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), comprising a cast of international musicians and features regular concerts, chamber concerts and traditional cultural performances. The National Art Gallery is located on Jalan Temerloh, off Jalan Tun Razak on a 5.67 hectare site neighboring the National Theater and National Library. The unique architecture of the gallery incorporates elements of traditional Malay architecture, which combined with contemporary lines has distinguished the complex as one of the most modern art venues in the region. A short distance from the Kuala Lumpur City Centre, the Putra World Trade Centre (popularly known as PWTC) and the major hotels of Kuala Lumpur, the gallery is a popular venue for visitors to the city. The National Art Gallery serves as a centre of excellence and trustee of the national art heritage. Additionally, The Petronas Art Gallery which is also a centre for fine art, is situated in Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC). The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPac) in Sentul West is also a noted centre for the performing arts, notably theatre and music (it can also host film screening). It has housed many local productions and has been a supporter of local and regional independent performance artists. Amongst the highlights of the year so far was the KL Sing Song 2006 music fest which featured Malaysian singer-songwriters of various cultural backgrounds, from both West and East Malaysia, through two days of performances and workshops. Kuala Lumpur holds an annual festival called Malaysia International Gourmet Festival. It is primarily held in the city center. Another event in Kuala Lumpur is Kuala Lumpur Fashion week, which includes international brands as well as local designers. Media
In Kuala Lumpur, there are several newspapers, including daily newspapers, business newspapers and also a digital newspaper. Daily newspapers include Utusan Malaysia, Berita Harian, Harian Metro, The Star, New Straits Times ,The Sun, Malay Mail, as well as other language newspapers. Kuala Lumpur is the headquarters for Malaysia's state broadcaster RTM and commercial station TV3. Programmes are broadcast in Malay, English, Chinese and Tamil. The city is also home to the country's main pay-TV service, Astro, a satellite television service, which broadcasts local and global television channels such as CNN, BBC World, Star World and HBO. Al-Jazeera, the Doha-based Arab news network has launched a new, English-speaking channel called Al-Jazeera English to boost its international viewership. One of its international broadcast centers has a base at the Petronas Twin Towers, in downtown Kuala Lumpur. Phoenix TV, a Hong Kong based television broadcaster has also announced plans to expand its regional business by setting up a representative office in Kuala Lumpur. Transportation
LandKuala Lumpur has a road network leading to the rest of Peninsular Malaysia. Motorists may have a choice of paying cash, using stored value card Touch 'n Go or SmartTAG to pay at the toll booths while using the various highways/expressways. A recently-completed project, SMART Tunnel will allow motorists to enter the city, avoiding congestion by using an underground tunnel. However, despite all this, Kuala Lumpur often has traffic problems, and peak hour traffic is generally from 7:30am to 8:45am, and from 5:45pm to 8:30pm. AirKuala Lumpur is directly connected to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in Sepang via the KLIA Ekspres high-speed train service which takes only 28 minutes, while travelling by car via highway will take about an hour. The former international airport, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang is now used for chartered flights. Malaysia Airlines and all major international airlines to Malaysia land at KLIA. AirAsia makes use of the newly built Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCC-T) in Sepang. LCC-T is accessible to/from KL through a bus service from KL Sentral (transport hub). Public transportationPublic transport on Kuala Lumpur and the rest of the Klang Valley covers a variety of transport modes such as bus, rail and taxi. Unlike most other major Asian cities, utilisation rates are low as only 16 percent of the population uses public transportation. In addition, there is the metro system consisting of 3 separate lines, which meet in the city and extend to the Western Suburbs of the state of Selangor. The metro system consists of a Monorail, an Elevated Metro, and an Automated Metro with underground stations in the city centre. Food, pets, drinks are strictly prohibited among trains and heavy penalties are charged upon violation. Commuter trains also exists to link commuters to the city. The main hub is KL Sentral facilitating as an interchange station for the main lines. Places of interest
See Also: Visit Malaysia YearThere are popular tourist locations in and around Kuala Lumpur. Within Kuala LumpurThe Golden Triangle, the commercial hub of the city, contains the Petronas Twin Towers and has a distinctive nightlife.The Petronas Twin Towers are the world's tallest twin towers and second and third-tallest singular towers, standing adjacent to one of the busiest shopping malls in Malaysia, Suria KLCC.The Menara Kuala Lumpur, currently the world's fifth tallest telecommunication tower, is located on the Bukit Nanas hill beside Convent Bukit Nanas. It's observation deck on the top floor provides great city views, and you'll be a few meters higher than the Twin Towers since the tower is built on a hill.Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) is the first convention and exhibition centre in Malaysia.Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (also known as KLCC) is another convention and exhibition centre in Kuala Lumpur. It is situated in the Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC area. A gigantic aquarium called Aquaria KLCC recently opened here, housing more than 5,000 varieties of tropical fishes. It has an underwater tunnel, various exhibits of flora and fauna, and multimedia kiosks.Dayabumi a major landmark located near Masjid Negara. It is an office building.Kuala Lumpur General Post Office is located next to Dayabumi.Lake Gardens, a 920,000 square metre manicured garden near the Malaysian Parliament building, was once home to a British colonial official. They include a Butterfly Park, Deer Park, Orchid Garden, Hibiscus Garden and South-East Asia's largest Bird Park. (Bird park pics)Stadium Merdeka (Independence Stadium), was initially erected for the country's declaration of independence on August 31, 1957.Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square/Merdeka Square), was the site of the lowering of the Union Jack flag and hoisting of the Malayan flag on the start of August 31, 1957. The square itself has historic association with its surroundings, namely the Royal Selangor Club, National History Museum and the architecturally Victorian-Moorish or 'Raj' influenced Sultan Abdul Samad Building.Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, a Victorian-Moorish railway station, was completed in 1911, and superseded by KL Sentral in 2001; it currently serves commuter trains only.The Muzium Negara (National Museum) incorporates neo traditionalism into its architectural design.The Masjid Negara (National Mosque), a post modernist mosque, was completed in 1965 and Makam Pahlawan (Heroes Mausoleum) the mausoleum of Malaysian leaders.The Parliament House, a Malaysian federal government legislative building, was completed on 1963.The Tugu Negara (National Monument) commemorates those who died in Malaysia's struggles for freedom (principally against the Japanese occupation and during the Malayan Emergency of).The Istana Negara, official residence of Their Majesties the King and Queen. Visitors can witness the changing of the guards daily from the main gate. The National Science Centre, located in Bukit Damansara.The Federal Territory Mosque located along Jalan Duta.Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, a gazetted small tropical forest located on the centre of Kuala Lumpur City.Many of the largest celebrations of Chinese cultural festivals are held at the Thean Hou Temple on Robson Hill.The Chinese Night Market area (Chinatown), Petaling Street, has recently undergone a makeover; the most notable feature is the new covered walkway.Mid Valley Megamall, one of the popular and largest shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur (situated in Bangsar).Bukit Bintang, the ultimate shopping and entertainment experience in the Golden Triangle.Berjaya Times Square, a newly built gargantuan ten-story shopping mall that is the largest shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur, and among the world's top ten largest malls. It houses the world's largest Borders bookstore, Malaysian department store Metrojaya, the Cosmo's World theme park plus a huge IMAX theater. The Mall is a shopping complex near Putra World Trade Centre.Kuala Lumpur's Central Market, which was once the city's wet market, offers an assortment of arts and craft merchandise, varying from antiques and paintings to souvenirs and clothing. It is also known as Pasar Seni in Malay.Trendy nightclubs, bars and lounges, such as Hard Rock Cafe, Zouk, Thai Club, Beach Club (voted Best Bar in Asia), Luna Bar, Rum Jungle, Nuovo, Espanda and many others are located within and around Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Ampang.Brickfields, Jalan Masjid India and Lebuh Ampang are 'Little India's spread around KL showing Indian presence in KL.Hindu temples such as Sri Mahamariamman temple near Central Market and Sri Kandaswamy Kovil in BrickfieldsIstana Budaya, the national theatre located at Titiwangsa Lake Gardens.Eye on Malaysia, the tallest Ferris Wheel in Malaysia located at Titiwangsa Lake Gardens.Around the Kuala Lumpur areaBatu Caves is a limestone hill in the north of Kuala Lumpur which has a series of caves and cave temples. It is a sacred place for Hindus in Malaysia and home to a 42.7m high statue of Lord Murugan. There are 272 steps, which will lead to the temple in the cave. Once a year, millions of Hindu devotees and other visitors throng the caves to celebrate the Thaipusam festival. On the other side of Batu Caves, there are few spots for rock climbing.Zoo Negara, located near Taman Melawati on the north-east of Kuala Lumpur, is the national zoo of Malaysia.About 25 kilometres west of Kuala Lumpur is the city of Shah Alam, site of the famous Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Mosque, and 10 kilometres away from Shah Alam (35 kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur) is the town of Klang, famed for its seafood and Bah Kut Teh.Genting Highlands is a hill top resort near Kuala Lumpur, famous for its casino, and Theme Parks. This is visible from Kuala Lumpur downtown on a clear day and as well on most nights. Dubbed the "Ciy of Entertainment", it is one of Malaysia's most visited tourist attraction. Putrajaya, new federal administration centre. This is a modern futuristic looking township that houses all government ministries. The administrative buildings have been built on either side of a long road - in a manner stated to be modelled after the National Mall in Washington DC. At one end of this driveway is the Prime Minister's office and at the other end is a convention centre.Sepang International Circuit is a racing circuit located in the outskirts of the city, near the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). It has been hosting Formula One's Malaysian Grand Prix since 1999.National Sports Complex, Bukit Jalil was the venue for the 1998 Commonwealth Games.Sister cities
Ankara, TurkeyIsfahan, IranMalacca Town, Malaysia (15 April 1989) Mashhad, Iran – declared sister cities on October 2006.Kuala Lumpur in popular culture
BooksKL 24/7 by Ida M Rahim, Shireen Zainudin and Rizal ZainudinComicsQPete's Sunday WebcomicsMusicKeroncong Kuala Lumpur by P. RamleeKuala Lumpur, Ibu Kota by SalomaChow Kit Road by Sudirman ArshadSenyumlah Kuala Lumpur by AlleycatsFilmsKL Menjerit and KL Menjerit 1 - Malay movieRemp-It - Malay movieEntrapment - Hollywood moviePolice Story 3 - Hong Kong Cantonese movieSkyline Cruisers - Hong Kong Cantonese movieOne Two Ka Four - Bollywood movieDon - The Chase Begins Again - Bollywood movieTelevision seriesDramas24 Season 1 (Opening Act)GameshowsThe Amazing RaceThe Amazing Race AsiaCartoonsTotally Spies! = Episode: Man or Machines - Cartoon seriesComputer and Video GamesIn the Grand Theft Auto III soundtrack, Chatterbox FM host Lazlow sarcastically remarks that his job is more desirable than digging sewage ditches in Kuala Lumpur.Three levels of the game are set in Kuala Lumpur.In the game Burnout Dominator, Kuala Lumpur is the basis for the level design of the Spiritual City.Gallery
Image:View_on_KL.JPG|Bird's eye view of Kuala Lumpur
Image:ColonialShoplots.jpg|Pre-war shoplots refurbished into restaurants and bars along Tengkat Tong Shin.
Image:KL Park_Photo by Dale Preston.jpg|A shot of the park behind the Petronas Towers
Image:KLMonorail.JPG|One of the many KL Monorail trains with a taxi beneath it.
Image:CentralMarketInterior.JPG|Handcraft and souvenir shops within Central Market.
Image:CentralMarketExterior.JPG|A pedestrian mall adjacent to Central Market.
Image:KLCCnight.jpg|Petronas Twin Towers (left/middle) and Maxis Tower (right) at dusk.
Image:Luna bar.jpg|Interior of Luna Bar, located on the 34th floor of the Pacific Regency Hotel.
Image:Aklee.JPG|The Ampang-Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway at the eastern fringes of the city.
Image:Bts.JPG|Berjaya Times Square.
Image:KLCCpark-skyline.png|KLCC Park in the foreground with the city's skyline as the backdrop.
Image:Bukitbintang2.jpg|A view from outside Sungei Wang showing the Bukit Bintang monorail station and Lot 10.
Image:KlRailwayStAndHq.jpg|The Railway Station is the bright colored building while the darker structure is the Malayan Railway headquarters.
Image:PetalingStreet.JPG|Traffic jam leading to Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown on Petaling Street.
Image:Petaling Street.JPG|Looking down Petaling Street market.
Image:KL View from Bangsar.JPG|A view of the city and surrounding landscape from Bangsar.
Image:Bombaypoint.jpg|Brickfields, KL's 'Little India'
Image:Dayabumi SultanAbdulSamadBuilding.JPG|Sultan Abdul Samad building and the white Dayabumi building.
Image:Nasjonalmonumentet.jpg|The national monument of Malaysia.
Image:20060105EyeOnMsia.jpg|The Eye on Malaysia.
Image:KL Nightsky Jun 06.JPG| View from Ampang. Petronas Twin Tower in the middle, KL Tower on the left.
See also
Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur City Hall)List of Kuala Lumpur embassiesList of old roads in Kuala LumpurBuses in Kuala LumpurRapid KL buses1998 Commonwealth Games, which were hosted in the city.External links
Official Kuala Lumpur WebsiteMalaysia Tourism BoardKuala Lumpur City GuideITIS Kuala Lumpur3D Map of Kuala Lumpur City CentreKuala Lumpur City Hallvectordesigns integrated KL public transport mapsGeographia ArticleLonely Planet - Kuala LumpurAsia's Top Ten Cities
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